The Scientific Method Today

After evaluating all the evidence, biologist James Watson and biophysicist Francis Crick solved one of nature's greatest puzzles - the structure of the DNA molecule ... the genetic "blueprint" that dictates the traits which living things inherit.

They earned a Nobel Prize for this discovery.

Herbert A. Simon, Nobel Laureate, and his associates researched the human problem-solving process.

Through evaluation of the evidence, they arrived at the hypothesis that a great variety of problems could be solved by use of a computer.

Dr. Simon's books contain a wealth of evidence on problem solving and artificial intelligence.

Stage #6 :

By now you should have a list of tentative solutions that are candidates for your educated guess or hypothesis.

This is also the stage for experimenting and testing. The final choice is often called your working hypothesis and will be your Stage #7.

• Problem: Should it be redefined or reframed?
• Goals and planning: Any changes? Any new leads or clues? Planning ahead?
• Goal-referencing approach: Where you started, are at now, and still need to go.
• Looking back: Have you been using the right attributes, methods, strategies, technologies, plus curious observation? Have you consulted your advisor? Have you had a team meeting? Are you keeping your log up-to-date? Being on the right path is important!
• Are you using innovation, creativity, watching for surprises? Are you alert to clues and leads?
• Are you putting thoughts and ideas into writing? Using all available resources?

• If data on any of these hypotheses is insufficient, gather additional information.
• Check against any list of criteria, formulas, and routines you have established.
• It may be helpful to read the information on Ingredient #7 to familiarize yourself with the characteristics and traits your working hypothesis must have.

Also, read Stage #8 to alert you as to how it will have to be challenged.